Our aim is to preserve and share the history of Nillumbik. We have a large archive of photographs, artifacts and historical documents relating to people who have lived in the area and places in the district they lived farmed and mined, with a particular focus on the wider area around Diamond Creek.

Wednesday, 23 March 2011

A wonderful day for our Autumn Fair on Saturday 19th March

Well the weather turned it on for us last Saturday. We couldn't have ordered a more perfect day. Yes, Autumn in Melbourne can be surprising, so we were very happy with a warm sunny day for our Autumn Fair.

We continued our historical emphasis for the Fair this year and all who attended appreciated the wonderful displays in our Barn and the Cottage. Out archives stall was well patronised. We sold books, photographs and postcards and handed out information leaflets and brochures.

The genealogy display had many examples of documents and maps for people to browse through.

Four very interesting talks were given throughout the day. Our thanks go to Gaye Ponting, Noel Withers, Stan Bone and Kevin Patterson for their efforts in preparing and time generously given to deliver some very interesting material.

Once again our devonshire teas were a success. Thanks go to Margaret Gordon, Lynn Loft and June Williams for working so hard in the kitchen.

Kevin Myers manned our barbeque all day keeping up with the demand for sausages. He had many compliments for their quality and taste.

There were many places to sit and enjoy both food and atmosphere with tables and chairs around the precinct and in our marquee. Some people returned for a second helping and returned to their seats to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere for a while longer.

Local musician Garry Hayes entertained us with his wonderful songs about the area. He surprised us with a new song about William Ellis, Ellis Cottage and the Nillumbik Historical Society. Thank you Garry.

Ron and Barbara Kirkbride's gem display attracted a lot of attention and their friend Ron exhibited his gem polishing skills.

We raffled a framed historical photograph of the Diamond Creek railway crossing taken about 1920. It was won by a young boy from Diamond Creek, Cooper Simpson.

A mystery object was also on display for people to guess what it was and its use. Seven people guessed exactly what it was - an apple grader or guage - so the winner decided by a draw from those seven entries. The $25 prize was won by Pam Lawson of Hurstbridge.